Gloria Kopp
Studying abroad is an exciting and enriching experience, and an opportunity most students want to seize while they can. When else do you have the opportunity to live away from home and explore another language and culture for a whole year, with a ready-made international friendship group, and easily accessible housing? However, there is one concern that most students do share, and that’s the cost. Studying abroad for a year can prove to be very expensive depending on where you study, however the tips below can help you save money, and make the experience affordable.
Think About Location
A lot of students see Europe as a desirable destination, however the cities there can be incredibly expensive. If you really want to improve your Spanish, why not pick somewhere in South America instead of Spain itself? “And if you’re into arts and culture, then Asia could be a much better choice – and while fights might be pricey you’ll end up saving a fortune while you’re there” – says Mary Reed, an academic consultant from Paper Fellows.
Master ATMs
Living on a budget, you might be used to taking out small amounts of cash at a time. This does not apply to withdrawing money abroad though, where it can be a lot cheaper to take out large chunks of cash at a time. Allocate it after it’s withdrawn to stick to your budget.
See What You Can Arrange Yourself
Sometimes letting a company or your school arrange your trip can end up being way more expensive than sorting it out by yourself. This is true with accommodation – check local prices instead of automatically going with housing from your host school.
Make Sure There’s Public Transport
Taxis can really add up, and as a student you may be too young to rent a car without paying high additional fees. Carol Wise, a college advisor from Boomessays comments: “Make sure there’s affordable public transport, and that you know how to navigate it. It may look complex, but you’ll also feel much more like a local, as well as save a considerable amount of money”.
Consider a Host Family
Staying with a family is often cheaper than renting somewhere, and it often includes the added bonus of meals and the occasional free ride somewhere too. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in language and culture, and can also be a lot safer than renting a cheap place in a bad area of town. Some people do this for one semester, then live with friends or rent their own place in the second semester when they’re more comfortable. It’s about finding what’s right for you.
Use Your Student ID
For most countries around the world, there are significant discounts on attractions and transportation, as well as food and clothes, for people with valid student ID cards. This makes a cheap option, for example travelling by coach instead of flying, even cheaper, and makes exploring and really experiencing your new home possible. Make sure you get an ID for your local university, so it’s recognised by local organisations.
Work Part-Time
Plenty of students work part time when they’re studying in their home country, and there’s no reason why not to when you’re abroad. Amber Coburn, an elearning consultant from Essayroo, shares the advice: “Make sure your visa allows it, and you can work anywhere if you know the local language, or at a tourist attraction if you only speak English. There are part time teaching English jobs all over the world that are a great way to make money and meet new people”.
Studying abroad is such an amazing experience, it would be a shame to let money worries stop you from taking part in a once in a life time opportunity.
